He said he accepted "this supreme mission" in the interest of the country's stability and to help ensure the monarchy's survival.

But he also confessed he was a bit nervous of the role, saying: "I'm afraid that I cannot fulfil this great duty well because of my lack of experience."

"My parents said they will show me how best to respect, love and serve our religion and people," he added.

He also promised to remain politically neutral, and not side with any particular parties or politicians.

"I will not interfere with the work of the legislature,
executive and judiciary," King Sihamoni added.

Leaders from around the world have congratulated King Sihamoni on his appointment.

UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan offered his "sincere congratulations", and Chinese President Hu Jintao said that under the new king's leadership "the Cambodian people will surely make new achievements in national construction".

A statement from France - former colonial power in Cambodia - assured King Sihamoni of support in his efforts to "reinforce national unity and the economic and social
development of the country".

When Sihanouk announced his abdication last Wednesday, Cambodia was plunged into a constitutional crisis.

There was no legal provision in the event of a monarch's abdication, and laws had to be rushed through parliament to enable a throne council to convene and choose a successor.

While the reigning monarch used to have great authority in Cambodia, the position is now largely symbolic and wields no real power.

But it remains an important position because of the reverence Cambodian people give to the royal family.